DOTBrightInspect

How long do I keep DOT annual inspection records, and where?

Keep each annual inspection report for 14 months from the inspection date, where the vehicle is housed or maintained, and produce it on demand for any authorized federal, state or local official (49 CFR 396.21(b)). Proof of the current inspection must also be on the vehicle. Keep inspector qualification records while they inspect, plus one year.

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How long do I keep each inspection record?

The rule: annual inspection record retention. Last reviewed: October 13, 2026.
RecordKeep forWhereSource
Annual inspection report14 monthsWhere the vehicle is housed or maintained396.21
Proof of current inspectionWhile currentOn the vehicle396.17(c)
Inspector qualification evidenceWhile inspecting, plus 1 yearCarrier files396.19(b)
Roadside inspection report copy12 months, certified and returned within 15 daysCarrier files396.9

What must the annual inspection report include?

The report must identify who inspected the vehicle, the carrier, the date and the vehicle, list every component inspected with its result, and certify that the inspection is accurate and complete (49 CFR 396.21).

What does the record rule mean for you?

  1. 01

    Make a file for each unit.

    One folder per tractor, truck and trailer keeps reports easy to find.

  2. 02

    Keep each report 14 months.

    Store it where the vehicle is housed or maintained, ready to produce for an official.

  3. 03

    Put proof on the vehicle.

    Keep the report, or a sticker based on it, on the vehicle. Sticker rules.

  4. 04

    File inspector qualifications.

    Keep evidence of each inspector's qualifications while they inspect for you, plus one year.

  5. 05

    Handle roadside reports within 15 days.

    Certify corrections and return roadside inspection reports within 15 days, then keep a copy 12 months.

Frequently asked questions

Federal rules allow the inspection report itself, or a sticker or decal based on it, as proof on the vehicle (396.17(c)). Bright Inspect gives you the full report digitally and as a printable copy. Keep a printed copy in the cab in case an officer asks for paper.

Get a copy of the report from whoever did the inspection. Federal rules let the carrier produce the report on demand of an official (396.21(b)), but proof also has to be on the vehicle. Bright Inspect records live in your account, so you can download them again.

Yes. Each record has a verification code anyone you share it with can check at book.dotbrightinspect.com/verify.

Need your annual inspection done?

Book an inspection where your vehicle is parked. Same-day slots, a digital record within 60 minutes, and no shop day.

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